David Naill Silverwork

We pride ourselves in our metalwork, taking great care to ensure every David Naill bagpipe is a true masterpiece. Each engraved set is personally undertaken by one of our freelance engraving artists. All engraving is crafted by hand. We do not automate or machine this process because nothing can match the artistry and skill of our hand engravers. We use only .925 Sterling silver for its durability, strength, and bright natural sheen. All mounts are fashioned in-house so to ensure the very finest quality craftsmanship. Silver pieces (ferrules, caps, slides, and tapers) are made on-site in our workshop. Afterward the pieces are sent to the Assay Office in London, where the silver is appraised, tested, and struck with the quality mark (hallmarked). The result is an instrument both visually stunning and distinguished.

David Naill offers the following hand engraved designs available in certain models.

Thistle

Our Thistle design pays tribute to the national emblem of Scotland. The flower was adopted as the Emblem of Scotland during the rein of Alexander III (1249 -1286). Legend has it, the army of King Haakon of Norway, intent on conquering the Scots, landed at the Coast of Largs at night. Hoping to surprise the sleeping Scottish Clansmen, the Norsemen removed their footwear in order to move more stealthily. Fortunately one of soldiers stepped on a spiny little flower (the thistle) and yelled out in pain, alerting the Clansmen of the coming danger. Needless to say, the Scots won the day.

New Runic

The history of rune symbols appear as far back as 1300 BC. Ancient Vikings believed that the Runes were the gift of Ódhinn. The word rune itself comes from the old Norse word Runa meaning a secret or mystery. Centuries later runes were used by the peoples of ancient Britain, and have come to represent many things (gods, people, animals, concepts and occurrences).

New Dragon

Dragons are one of the most popular mythological creatures. They descend from various legends, telling tales of fire-breathing, winged creatures. Dragons carry meanings of courage, strength, power, wisdom, and are known as protectors of sacred items. This design is carved with wonderful swirling spirals transcendent of Celtic knotwork, depicting two dragon heads facing each other.

Reposse Style

Our Reposse Style is hand engraved to look like Reposse. This specific style of metalwork takes great skill and experience to craft, therefore we assign the task to our most seasoned engraving artists. The Reposse design technique has been widely used throughout antiquity, from the ancient Ireland to modern day. This design features an interlace pattern similar to a Dara Celtic knot. Dara (or doire) is the Irish word for oak tree, and represents meanings of power, destiny, wisdom, strength, endurance, and leadership.